them to a Europa League triumph in 2012 and the Cup success last season.

However, last weekend's shock 3-0 reverse at Osasuna, when Simeone left a number of key players out of his starting lineup, suggested they may not have a deep enough squad to cope with a gruelling calendar.

Fullback Juanfran said the team are keen to put last week's stumble behind them and reignite their title challenge.

"We are keen to prepare the match well and if we beat Madrid things will be different," he said on Atletico's website (www.clubatleticodemadrid.com).

"We are playing at our stadium, where we are unbeaten (in La Liga this season) and I am convinced we will play a good match and win," he added.